Do I have to get a brand new passport if I was issued a passport as a minor.

by Jasmine
(Norristown, PA, USA)

Question: I was under the age of 16 when I first got my passport. I am going on a cruise next year. I was wondering the process I would have to take in order to either renew my passport or get a brand new passport.

Answer: Passports issued to minors are valid for 5 years. If your passport has expired, you need to appear in person at a Pennsylvania passport application acceptance facility in order to apply for a new one. Click the link below for a complete list of requirements.

Note, passports are not required to exit and re-enter the United States when traveling on a closed-loop cruise. However, you may need a passport to enter the countries you will visit. Contact the cruise line about travel document requirements.

If a passport is required, you may be able to use a passport card rather than a passport book. The application fee for the card is only $30 compared to $110 for the book. Note, the passport card can only be used for land and sea travel to Bermuda, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean region. If you plan to travel by air to any foreign destination, then you will need a passport book.

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